Route No5

HeraklionThe largest urban center in Crete got its name in honor of the Greek hero Hercules, committed in Crete one of his exploits. The first European civilization, the Minoan civilization, flourished on this land 5.000 years ago. Today it is the capital of region and economic centre of island, one of the most popular destinations with dynamic infrastructure, boutiques, restaurants, souvenir shops and bustling cafes with flavors of local cuisine, as well as large number of historical sites and buildings.

Knossos PalaceKnossos Palace is one of the biggest palaces which were built by Minoans: more than a thousand rooms and halls for different uses. According to myths Knossos was a land capital of Minos, where he lived. In essence it was not just the residence of the king and the highest dignitary, but administrative and economic center, so the Knossos city was build around it.

ArhanesTipical Cretan hamlet that is famous for its Minoan sacred caves, where were found symmetric doubleheaded axe, one of the oldest symbols of Greek civilization

KasteliKasteli was built on the steep double-headed hill Roka. The caslte Kanli Kasteli gave its name to the village. Kasteli played an important role as the country town of the province of Pediada. Villagers from all around was attracted here as it was commercial centre of that area with its important market.